For every student, studying abroad is an exciting prospect. It’s no surprise that so many international students choose to embark on this journey, given the opportunity to experience different cultures, meet new people, and receive an education from a world-renowned university.
However, finding safe and affordable accommodation can be challenging for individuals unfamiliar with the local housing market.
In this blog, we will discuss how to find affordable and safe accommodation as an international student.
Determine Your Housing Needs and Budget
Before looking for affordable and safe student accommodation, you must determine your housing needs and budget. This can help you limit your options and choose a place that suits your needs while remaining affordable.
Consider your lifestyle and preferences first. Do you like to live in a quiet area or the heart of the city? Are you required to live near your school or workplace, or are you willing to commute? Do you need amenities like a private bathroom, laundry facilities, or a kitchen? Answering these questions will help you come up with a list of must-haves and deal-breakers.
You can begin exploring accommodation options after you have a strong understanding of your needs.
Research your Options
After identifying your housing needs and budget, the next step is to research your housing options. Several types of accommodation are available to you, depending on your budget and personal preferences. You can choose from on-campus housing, private apartments, homestays, or shared accommodation with other students.
The internet can assist you in finding available accommodation in your university or college neighbourhood. There are numerous websites and online platforms, such as amberstudent, where you can search for affordable and hygienic student accommodation.
You can also use Dfavo to search for quality accommodation. They also provide all students with a USD 300 grant/scholarship upon registration and do not charge any service fees.
Many universities and colleges provide housing services or student housing associations to assist international students in finding accommodations. These resources can give information about rental listings, shared housing, homestays, or temporary housing, as well as connect you with other students who are looking for accommodation.
Connect with Other Students or Local Communities
Connecting with other students or local communities is an excellent method to locate affordable and safe housing as an international student. This can provide you with valuable resources and a detailed understanding of the housing market and the surrounding neighbourhood.
You can join student organisations or clubs at your school. Many universities have international student organisations or housing assistance programmes that might help you connect with other students or resources. You can also meet new individuals and make connections by attending events or social gatherings hosted by these organisations.
Another alternative is to connect with other students or local people through online forums or social media. Several social media groups or forums are dedicated to housing, roommates, and rentals in various cities and towns.
Ask Important Questions and Verify the Information
Once you’ve found a potential accommodation option that meets your demands and budget, it’s important to ask the right questions and double-check the information provided. This will assist you in avoiding unpleasant surprises later on and will guarantee that the accommodation is safe and appropriate for your requirements.
It’s also a good idea to get references from previous tenants or read online reviews to understand what it’s like to live there. This can assist you in verifying the information provided and determining if the accommodation is safe and suitable for your preferences.
When verifying information, be thorough and request proof or evidence wherever available.
Sign a Lease or Rental Agreement
The next step is to sign a lease or rental agreement if you’ve found suitable accommodation that suits your preferences and budget. This is a legally binding agreement between you and your landlord outlining the terms and conditions of your tenancy. Before signing anything, it’s essential to thoroughly read the contract and know your rights and obligations as a tenant.
Make sure to clear up any confusion or queries concerning the leasing agreement. For example, you should look into the lease’s terms, the amount of rent you’ll be paying, the security deposit necessary, and any other fees or taxes.
If you’re unsure about signing the lease agreement or have questions about any clauses, don’t be afraid to ask for clarification. You can also seek legal advice from a legal professional. Remember that signing a rental agreement is a legally binding contract, so read it thoroughly and make a well-informed choice that works for you.
Conclusion
We hope this article helps you understand how to find affordable and safe accommodation as an international student. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us in the comment section below.
How can Amberstudent help you?
amber serves millions of students around the world by providing the best and most rewarding experience for booking a house. We are upgraded with the latest COVID protocols and would be more than happy to assist you in booking your ideal home. Tune in to our Facebook and Instagram to stay updated.
Author’s Bio
Archit is an avid writer who is keen to get his doctorate. When not writing, he can be found reading, taking the metro and then questioning this decision, and haunting local bookstores.
